Street library finds home

THE street library built at the Barkly Square Men’s Shed by Steven Petrov and other volunteers has been successfully installed at St Paul’s Anglican Church in Bakery Hill.

The library now acts as a focal point at the church where the community can come together to access and donate books.

“The effect has been great, and it has been well used,” said Mr Petrov. “Everybody who has seen it has been very positive about it.

“It’s a great feel-good thing in the circular economy that there’s a place for books to go and they bring a lot of enjoyment to people.”

It is also hoped the library will bring benefits beyond good reads, as it is sustainable and encourages visitors.

“It helps the community lower our carbon footprint and it’s good for Ballarat businesses because when people come and have a day out on a book trail, they also have a cup of coffee and something to eat in town,” Mr Petrov said.

“It’s a positive for everyone.”

Mr Petrov encouraged other organisations to consider installing a similar street library.

“’I would love it if more Ballarat organisations got on board,” he said.

“How wonderful would it be if we could turn Ballarat into the street Library capital of Victoria or had a book trail week where everyone could come down and see our beautiful city.”

With Barkly Square Men’s Shed members now well versed in building the little libraries, Mr Petrov said the group is happy to speak to anyone who is interested.

“I thank the Barkly Square Men’s Shed because everyone there contributed their time and their energy in helping the library come to life,” he said.

“If anyone else wants a street library, they make them there so they can get in contact and hopefully we can get them all over Ballarat.”